Caymanas Track Limited: Jamaica’s Premier Horse Racing Facility

Introduction

Caymanas Track Limited (CTL) stands as the heartbeat of horse racing in Jamaica, managing the nation’s only race track, Caymanas Park. Located in Portmore, St. Catherine, this iconic venue attracts racing enthusiasts, tourists, and locals alike. Originally a sugarcane estate, Caymanas Park transformed into a modern racing facility in 1959. Since its formation in 1989, CTL has driven the promotion of horseracing and pari-mutuel betting, fostering a vibrant sports culture.

History and Background

Caymanas Park’s story begins as a sugarcane estate owned by the Ellis family, who profited from sugar and slavery in colonial Jamaica. In 1959, the estate became a race track when the Jamaica Turf Club and Knutsford Park Ltd. merged operations, creating a state-of-the-art facility on land donated by the Hamilton family.

Operations and Services

Caymanas Track Limited oversees all aspects of horseracing at Caymanas Park, organizing approximately 900 local races each year. Additionally, 34 of these races are sponsored by major Jamaican companies, enhancing their prestige. CTL also manages a robust simulcast system, broadcasting over 10,500 international races annually from tracks in the United States, Australia, and Britain.

Community Involvement

Through its initiatives, CTL demonstrates its commitment to community development.For instance, the company has adopted the Gregory Park All Age School, providing scholarships to support students’ education. Similarly, CTL plays a key role in the Portmore Community College Work Experience Programme, offering practical training to young people.

Economic Impact

Caymanas Track Limited significantly boosts Jamaica’s economy. The track attracts thousands of visitors annually, supporting local businesses and the tourism sector. CTL’s advertising through television, radio, and press provides substantial media exposure, benefiting related industries. The 2017 divestment to Supreme Ventures Limited (SVL) brought significant investments, with SVL spending over $3 billion to upgrade facilities.

Divestment and Modernization

In 2017, the Government of Jamaica divested CTL’s operations to Supreme Ventures Limited (SVL), marking a significant shift. The deal, signed on February 10, 2017, saw SVL’s subsidiary, Supreme Ventures Racing and Entertainment Limited (SVREL), take over management. Consequently, SVREL invested heavily in modernizing Caymanas Park, including upgrading the tote system and expanding the OTB network.

Cultural Significance

Caymanas Park holds a special place in Jamaican culture. Beyond its sporting role, the track has inspired music, literature, and community gatherings. The 1969 song Long Shot (Kick The Bucket) by the Pioneers captures the emotional highs and lows of racing at Caymanas, reflecting its cultural impact.

Challenges and Controversies

While CTL has achieved much, it has faced challenges. The 2017 divestment, though aimed at revitalizing the track, led to a $200 million redundancy program, raising concerns about job security. Additionally, a 2016 strike by engineering department employees resulted in a $30 million loss and the dismissal of 16 workers, later deemed unjust by the Industrial Disputes Tribunal.

Future Prospects

Under SVREL’s direction, Caymanas Park is set for expansion in the future. The company aims to transform the track into a world-class racing venue, with plans to increase race days and attract international attention. Moreover, SVREL’s partnership with the New York Racing Association and FOX Sports to broadcast events like the Motet Mile signals global ambitions.

Key Data Table

Aspect	Details
Location	Gregory Park, Portmore, St. Catherine, Jamaica
Land Size	196 acres, owned by CTL
Annual Local Races	Approximately 900 races
Simulcast Races	Over 10,500 races from the US, Australia, and Britain
OTB Parlors	62 across Jamaica, operating 6 days a week
Community Initiatives	Scholarships, Gregory Park All Age School adoption, work experience program
Divestment	Transferred to Supreme Ventures Limited in 2017
Regulatory Bodies	Jamaica Racing Commission and the Betting, Gaming, and Lotteries Commission
Awards	Attraction of the Year by Jamaica Hoteliers and Tourist Association

Conclusion

Caymanas Track Limited embodies Jamaica’s rich sporting heritage and community spirit. From its origins as a sugarcane estate to its current role as a premier horse racing facility, CTL has evolved while staying true to its mission. Its contributions to tourism, employment, and education, coupled with its cultural significance, make it a vital part of Jamaica’s identity.

FAQs

Citations

• Jamaica Information Service – Caymanas Track Ltd.
• Wikipedia – Caymanas Park
• Development Bank of Jamaica – Caymanas Track Limited (CTL)
• Loop Jamaica – Caymanas Track Limited divestment finally completed
• Jamaica Observer – To sell or not to sell Caymanas Park, the heartbeat of horse racing